In a season filled with upsets and surprises, perhaps nothing is more shocking than the Oklahoma City Thunder’s improbable run to the Western Conference Finals — and it’s all being driven by the transcendent play of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
Gilgeous-Alexander, who finished the regular season as a top MVP contender, has elevated his game even further in the playoffs, averaging over 30 points per game while leading a young, untested Thunder squad past veteran-loaded teams. But as the Thunder prepares to face their toughest challenge yet, questions are beginning to swirl: is SGA doing *too much*?
With every game, it seems the burden on Gilgeous-Alexander grows heavier. While Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams have offered flashes of brilliance, the offense and leadership rest squarely on SGA’s shoulders. Critics argue that the Thunder’s game plan is becoming too dependent on their star, risking burnout — or worse, exposure — against more balanced, playoff-savvy teams.
Still, the results speak for themselves. The Thunder dispatched the defending champion Denver Nuggets in a stunning six-game series, with Gilgeous-Alexander dropping 38 points in the Game 6 clincher. His poise, scoring versatility, and lockdown defense have not only silenced doubters but also ignited conversations about him being a top-5 player in the league.
“Shai’s playing out of his mind,” said head coach Mark Daigneault. “But this isn’t a one-man show. It’s a team that believes in itself — and believes in Shai.”
Yet skeptics remain. Some analysts warn that unless the Thunder find more consistent secondary scoring, their dream run could be nearing its end. Against a battle-tested Western Conference finalist like the Minnesota Timberwolves or Los Angeles Clippers, solo heroics might not be enough.
One thing is clear: whether he’s carrying too much or just enough, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has already cemented himself as one of the brightest stars in basketball — and the Thunder are riding his brilliance into uncharted territory.
